Ronaldo Souza: “I see myself reaching the top of my division, step by step.”

If Strikeforce hadn’t faded into history, there’s a good chance middleweight Ronaldo Souza would be fighting for the title he won while under the organization’s banner instead of facing Chris Camozzi at UFC on FX 8. After all, in addition to being a former champion, Souza has scored success (and stoppages) in all three of his tilts since falling on the scorecards to Luke Rockhold.

However, “Jacare” knows it’s a different game now that he’s joined the UFC. The 33-year old recently spoke to the UFC’s website about his standing in the division where he showed both acceptance of his status and eagerness to work his way up the ladder.

“I still need a couple more fights to move up. It’s a very tough division. They are all tough guys and any of them can put a great fight,” admitted the 17-3 Souza. “But I see myself reaching the top of my division, step by step. I am aware of the responsibilities and challenges ahead of me and I am ready for it.”

Part of Souza’s excitement comes from the fact he’ll be competing in his home country of Brazil this weekend after a five-year absence filled with fights in Japan and the United States.

“It means a lot to me. Not only I will debut in the biggest event of the world, I will debut in Brazil,” said Souza. “That pumps me up to be ready, to be more focused, and to put my emotions on the side and bring the action into the cage.”

Fans can catch Souza’s scrap with Camozzi (19-5) on FX after the main card kicks off 8:00 PM EST.